Howard's Folly Reserva 2008

The 2008 Reserva Howard’s Folly is a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Alicante Bouschet, aged for 12 months in a mixture of new and used American and French oak barrels. It comes in at 14% alcohol. The price uptick is notable, but this bottling certainly answers some of the questions I had about its little brother, the Sonhador reviewed this issue. There is a certain similarity – a focused mid-palate, sweet fruit, and a lot of Syrah and Alicante. It is quite sexy at times. Here, however, the sweet fruit, while still exuberant and boldly flavored, is a little toned down. It is also supported by far better structure. The wine finishes with crisp intensity and some tannic pop, and then lingers nicely. Like its little brother, though, this is not about subtle and earthy gravitas; you’ll admire it for its flavor and boldness, or you likely won’t admire it at all. This has a chance to become something more in the cellar. It is worth leaning up. Drink now-2018.